June 17, 2025
The Town of Yucay
The town of Yucay is one of the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s a small place that you can explore on easy walks through its main attractions. Your visit will feel like a storybook, as every corner holds a special charm waiting to surprise you. Discover everything you can experience in Yucay.
Contents
- What will I find in Yucay?
- Where is Yucay located?
- What are the best activities I can do in Yucay?
- Tips for visiting the town of Yucay
- Frequently Asked Questions
What will I find in Yucay?
Yucay is considered one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Cusco. Thanks to its small geographical size, it can be explored easily on short walks. Strolling through its streets is one of the main attractions. As a colonial town with remnants of Inca culture, every angle you discover will surprise you.
Its climate is perfect for spending the first days of your trip in Cusco. You’ll also find many cultural activities that will enrich your experience and offer something out of the ordinary—ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing break during your journey. As for its Quechua name, Yucay is translated as “charm,” likely referring to the beauty of the place and its harmony with the surrounding valley and mountains.
Where is Yucay located?
The town of Yucay is located in the province of Urubamba, along the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From the city of Cusco, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering a distance of 60 kilometers.
Its average elevation of 2,857 meters above sea level makes Yucay an ideal destination to acclimate and spend your first days in Cusco. You can also consider visiting at the end of your trip to relax and enjoy the biodiversity that the Cusco region has to offer.
What are the best activities I can do in Yucay?
If visiting Yucay is part of your travel itinerary, here are the best activities you can enjoy in this magical town. This way, you’ll discover all the available options and choose what best matches your interests and preferences.
Agricultural Terraces of Yucay
The immense agricultural terraces of Yucay are one of its main attractions. Here, you’ll not only learn about their agricultural and historical function in Inca culture, but also enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding flora. These terraces optimized water and land use and allowed the creation of different microclimates.
Some of these terraces are still used today by local farmers. To reach them, you’ll need to climb a set of stone steps rich in history. It’s a free site, making it a must-see stop at any time of the day while visiting Yucay.
Santiago Apostle Temple
Santiago Apostle is the main church in Yucay, built during the colonial period in the 17th century. This site will impress you with its facade built on Inca foundations, similar to many temples in the city of Cusco.
During your visit, you’ll see historic altars and plenty of religious art. Upon exiting, there’s a large green area where you can relax and admire the mountains surrounding Yucay.
Palace of Inca Sayri Túpac
This ancient adobe and stone palace belonged to Inca Sayri Túpac. It’s located very close to the town center and features Inca walls, windows, entrances, and remnants of what was once a major residence.
During your visit, you’ll also see a pre-Hispanic ceramic oven in excellent condition. The Palace of Inca Sayri Túpac is free to visit, making it an easy and worthwhile stop at any time of day, with only a short walk required.
Exploration and Hikes
Yucay offers a variety of walking routes through its streets and natural surroundings. You don’t need to go far to explore — you’ll find everything from natural viewpoints to archaeological sites. Its streets carry the charm of colonial-era architecture, many of which still preserve Inca foundations.
Like the rest of the Sacred Valley, Yucay is filled with places to explore and rich biodiversity, offering magical moments and scenic views. The best part is that you can do this at any time of the day while enjoying Yucay’s excellent weather.
Spiritual or Wellness Tourism
Thanks to its peaceful atmosphere, mild climate, natural landscape, and mystical cultural heritage, Yucay has become a popular destination for wellness retreats and spiritual ceremonies. You’ll find holistic activities such as yoga, meditation, Andean healing, floral baths, and sacred rituals like Ayahuasca or San Pedro ceremonies.
These activities are quite popular throughout the Sacred Valley, but Yucay is an iconic destination for them because it offers greater connection with nature, silence, and the calm that is essential for these practices to take place in an ideal setting.
Tips for visiting the town of Yucay
If you’re planning to visit Yucay during your journey through the Sacred Valley, here are some recommendations and tips to help you prepare for a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
- The town of Yucay is located at an altitude of approximately 2,857 meters (9,373 feet) above sea level, making it an ideal place to acclimate during the first days of your trip to Cusco.
- You can explore the entire town of Yucay in a simple half-day tour, but we recommend staying overnight to enjoy its ideal, relaxing climate.
- Always carry plenty of water and some snacks during your walks through Yucay and the Sacred Valley—most places you visit will offer a perfect setting for relaxation.
- Yucay is considered by many to be a “high-energy” zone, perfect for disconnecting, healing, and reconnecting.
- The town of Yucay relies mainly on agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism, so you’ll find many cultural demonstrations throughout your visit.
- If you visit Yucay during the dry season (April to October), expect clearer skies and sunny weather, though it can get quite cold at night.
- During the rainy season (November to March), Yucay experiences more precipitation—but the surrounding landscape becomes greener and more lush.
- Try the local cuisine in Yucay to taste firsthand the agricultural products grown in the area.
- Many local families offer immersive cultural tourism experiences, so if you want deeper contact with the traditions and lifestyle of the region, this is a great option.
- Classic tours of the Sacred Valley usually don’t include Yucay, so if you want to visit, you’ll need to do it independently. Don’t worry—it’s close to Cusco and the route is safe and full of beautiful scenery.
- Remember, you can plan your Sacred Valley journey your own way. Talk to our travel advisors to discover all the options available for your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Yucay like?
Yucay is a small and charming town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, ideal for short walks and peaceful experiences. It stands out for its mix of colonial and Inca architecture, agricultural landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere.
2. Is Yucay worth visiting?
Yes, it’s definitely worth it. Although not often included in traditional tours, Yucay offers an authentic, less touristy experience deeply connected to Andean history and nature.
3. How much time do I need to explore Yucay?
A basic tour of Yucay can be done in half a day. However, if you want to explore its terraces, temples, hiking trails, or take part in activities, we recommend spending at least one night in the town.
4. How do I get to Yucay from Cusco?
From Cusco city, you can reach Yucay in about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. There are cars and buses that take you to Urubamba, and from there, you can take a taxi or shared van (colectivo) to Yucay. You can also arrange private transportation.
5. What can I do in Yucay?
In Yucay, you can visit Inca terraces, Santiago Apostle Temple, the ancient palace of Inca Sayri Túpac, and various natural trails surrounding the town. You can also enjoy cultural tourism experiences and spiritual activities.
6. Do I need to pay to enter Yucay’s attractions?
Most attractions in Yucay are free to visit. The terraces, the colonial church, and the Palace of Inca Sayri Túpac can all be accessed without an entrance fee.
7. Is Yucay a good place to acclimate?
Yes, due to its moderate altitude (2,857 meters above sea level), mild climate, and peaceful vibe, Yucay is an excellent option for acclimatization before visiting higher-altitude destinations like Cusco or Machu Picchu. It’s also ideal for relaxing at the end of your trip.
8. What does the name “Yucay” mean?
The name “Yucay” comes from the Quechua language and translates to “charm.” This perfectly reflects the town’s natural beauty and harmony with its surrounding environment.
9. What’s the best time of year to visit Yucay?
The best time to visit Yucay is between April and October during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and more stable. However, if you prefer lush green landscapes, the rainy season (November to March) also has its charm.
10. Can I visit Yucay on my own or do I need a tour?
You can visit Yucay on your own. It’s easily accessible from Cusco or Urubamba, and its main attractions can be explored on foot.